A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Milwaukee for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Merida or Milwaukee?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Milwaukee, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Merida

Merida is a historical, traditional, and colonial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Merida travel costs.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a undiscovered, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Merida and Milwaukee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Merida or Milwaukee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Merida than Milwaukee, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Merida is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also home to Grand Plaza. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Merida different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Milwaukee and Merida. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Merida or Milwaukee?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Merida. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Milwaukee. There are several unique museums like the Harley-Davidson Museum, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Milwaukee Public Museum. There's also the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Grohmann Museum as well as outdoor sculpture parks and other cultural and historic museums.


Is the Food Better in Merida or Milwaukee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Merida has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

Milwaukee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The Midwest is known for its artery clogging comfort foods, and Milwaukee is no exception. Cheese curds, fried fish, fruit dumplings, and frozen custard are all popular.

Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Merida has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

Milwaukee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a decent number of breweries around town. There are also wine bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for its Old Town?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Merida is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Milwaukee?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Merida is well-known for its shopping. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

Many visitors go to Milwaukee to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers and shopping malls around town, but if you want some more local vendors, check out the areas around the Historic Third Ward and The Village in Wauwatosa.

Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida and Milwaukee are both good destinations for the whole family.

Merida is a family-friendly city. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Milwaukee. Kids will enjoy a visit to Discovery World, which is a science center with hands-on exhibits. There's also the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Milwaukee Public Museum. Younger kids will also enjoy a stop at Betty Brinn Children's Museum.

Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

Merida makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.

Milwaukee is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Take a walk or visit a local restaurant. There are also museums and performances that make for a nice outing.


Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Merida. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.

Milwaukee is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a lot to attract backpackers to the area.

Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Merida
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Merida is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Milwaukee. It's home to a number of colleges and universities, so there is a bit of a college town vibe.

Merida is not popular with students.

Is Merida or Milwaukee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its public transit.

Merida has some public transit options. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Public transit is generally limited in Milwaukee. There are buses that travel around town.


Is Merida or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Merida
Milwaukee

Merida is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Merida is a very walkable city. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.

Milwaukee is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are relatively compact and walkable. The most walkable neighborhoods are East Side, Riverwest, Brewers Hill, Downtown, Avenues West/Marquette, Third Ward, Walker's Point, and Bay View.

For even more information, also check out Is Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Merida?

How long in Merida or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Merida or Milwaukee to fill your time. In our opinion, Merida has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Merida than Milwaukee. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Merida than Milwaukee. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Merida, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Merida than Milwaukee. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Merida that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Milwaukee if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Merida.


  • How many days in Merida or Milwaukee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    Milwaukee 1-2

One day in Merida or Milwaukee?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Merida. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Merida has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Milwaukee. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Merida or Milwaukee?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colonial destination of Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Milwaukee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Merida or Milwaukee?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Merida. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milwaukee. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Merida or Milwaukee?

Merida is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Milwaukee. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Milwaukee or Merida?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Merida Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Milwaukee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Merida $99
    Milwaukee $214

The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $99, while the average daily cost in Milwaukee is $214. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Merida and Milwaukee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $40
    Milwaukee $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $80
    Milwaukee $198
Compare Hotels in Merida and Milwaukee

Looking for a hotel in Merida or Milwaukee? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Merida


Hotels in Milwaukee


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Merida Hotel Prices and Milwaukee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Merida $17
    Milwaukee $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

Also for Merida, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way: $44
  • Private Transfer From Merida to Uxmal, English Speaking Driver: $156
  • Private Airport Transfer from Mérida to Campeche: $292
  • One-way Airport Transfers to Merida Hotels: $120
  • Merida hotels to Mérida International Airport (MID) - Private Departure Transfer: $25
  • Merida Airport (MID) Private Transfer to Merida Centre: $40
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $50
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milwaukee

Also for Milwaukee, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Milwaukee to Milwaukee Airport MKE by SUV: $80
  • Arrival Transfer from Milwaukee Airport MKE to Milwaukee by SUV: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Merida or Milwaukee?

Prices for flights to both Milwaukee and Merida change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Merida $46
    Milwaukee $90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Merida

For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Street Food Tour + Historic Tour Merida - Best Rated : $44
  • Merida Food Tour with local Yucatecan Chef : $56
  • Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine: $64
  • Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit: $86
  • Merida Shore Excursion- Mexican Cooking Class with Port Transfers: $102
  • Market Tour and Authentic Cooking Class in Merida with Transfers: $154

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milwaukee

For Milwaukee, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Kenosha Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Milwaukee Food Tour with 5 Local Favorites Tastings & Secret Dish: $99
  • Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Milwaukee: $103
  • Local Food Tour of 5 Delicacies & a Secret Dish: $104
  • Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Merida $15
    Milwaukee $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Merida

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Merida's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Train at the Zoo
    $0.11
  • Uxmal Entrance (for 2)
    $18
  • Mayan Village Entrance (for 2)
    $5.43

Tours and Activities in Merida

For Merida, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Temazcal experience in the Mayan world: $167
  • 3 Hour Tour in The Sotuta de Peón Live Museum: $56
  • 4 Cenotes Full Day Tour from Merida: $104
  • 4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida: $68
  • 4x1 Tour Chichen Itza Magic Towns Valladolid & Izamal from Merida: $108
  • 6-hour Guided Tour to Uxmal and Kabah Express: $89
  • Adventure 4 cenotes with Izamal: $119
  • Ake Ruins & Homun Cenotes Day Tour from Merida: $90
  • Ancestral Mayan Private Culinary Experience in Merida: $128
  • Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida: $75
  • Celestun Biosphere Reserve Tour from Merida: $165
  • Celestun Nature Reserve Flamingo Tour-Boat to Flamingo Paradise from Merida: $230

Tours and Activities in Milwaukee

For Milwaukee, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Hour Bus Tour in Milwaukee City: $40
  • Christmas Past, Present and Future Light Tour in Milwaukee: $50
  • City of Neighborhoods: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Milwaukee: $7.99
  • Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour : $68
  • Downtown Milwaukee Walking Tour: $16
  • Haunting Histories: An Audio Tour of Milwaukee‘s Wicked Westown: $8.99
  • Kenosha Downtown Urban Art and Photography Walking Tour: $30
  • Kenosha Metal Detecting Tour to Simmons Island Beach: $40
  • Milwaukee Cheese Curd Kayak Tour: $175
  • Milwaukee Downtown Ghost Tour - The Shadow of City Hall: $29
  • Milwaukee Historic Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Milwaukee Marvels: A 2-Hour Private Tour: $1,126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Merida $14
    Milwaukee $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Milwaukee

Also in Milwaukee, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack: $109


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Milwaukee, we can see that Milwaukee is more expensive. And not only is Merida much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Merida would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Merida and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Milwaukee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milwaukee than you might in Merida.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Merida Expensive? and Is Milwaukee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Merida or Milwaukee?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Milwaukee. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Milwaukee, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Merida or Milwaukee?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Merida or Milwaukee in the Summer?

Both Milwaukee and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milwaukee for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Merida is generally around the same temperature as Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Milwaukee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Milwaukee during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 321 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Milwaukee. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C)

Should I visit Merida or Milwaukee in the Autumn?

Both Milwaukee and Merida during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Merida for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Milwaukee in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Merida is much warmer than Milwaukee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Merida. In the autumn, Merida often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 174 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Milwaukee. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Milwaukee 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Merida or Milwaukee in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Milwaukee. Many visitors come to Merida in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Milwaukee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milwaukee can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Merida is much warmer than Milwaukee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Merida in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Milwaukee averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Milwaukee during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 138 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Milwaukee. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Merida 20°C (68°F) 
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Merida or Milwaukee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Merida as well as Milwaukee. Most visitors come to Merida for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Merida is generally much warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Milwaukee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the spring, Merida often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 211 hours of full sun.

Merida receives a lot of rain in the spring. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Milwaukee. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Milwaukee 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Milwaukee and Merida

Merida Milwaukee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 50 mm (2 in) 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 21°C (70°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 22°C (72°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Dec 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)